NextFin news, On Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the IAA Mobility auto show held in Munich, Germany, 11 Chinese automobile brands presented new vehicles and announced plans to expand their presence in the European market. This event marks a significant push by Chinese manufacturers to increase their footprint in Europe amid rising competition with established European carmakers.
The Chinese brands participating include Jaecoo and Omoda from the Chery Group, BYD, Avatr, Changan, 212 Off-Road Vehicle, Dongfeng's Forthing, Guangzhou Automobile Group's Aion, and the historic Hongqi brand. Many of these brands are introducing electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrids, and traditional combustion models, targeting various segments of the European market.
Jaecoo launched in Germany with the J7 plug-in hybrid model, while Omoda introduced several electric SUVs including the Omoda 5. Avatr announced its imminent market entry in Germany with four new models. Changan debuted its Deepal S07 and S05 models for the German market. The 212 Off-Road Vehicle brand showcased the T01, a diesel-powered off-road vehicle, reinterpreting a classic Chinese military design. Dongfeng's Forthing brand also announced its official launch in Germany.
Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) presented its Aion electric models, aiming to attract European customers with competitive pricing. Hongqi, China's oldest car brand, displayed luxury and electric models, signaling intentions for international expansion, though specific European plans remain unclear.
The IAA Mobility show, running from September 9 to 14, 2025, serves as a key platform for these Chinese manufacturers to introduce themselves to European consumers and dealers. According to industry sources, Chinese brands have nearly doubled their European market share to 4.8% in the first seven months of 2025 compared to the previous year, with expectations to further increase their presence.
European automakers such as Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Renault are responding with new electric models and competitive pricing strategies to maintain market share. The growing presence of Chinese brands at the IAA reflects a broader trend of Chinese automakers seeking growth opportunities abroad as competition intensifies in their domestic market.
Industry analysts note that despite EU tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, Chinese manufacturers remain committed to expanding in Europe, which has become a critical market due to political restrictions limiting access to the U.S. market. The IAA Mobility 2025 thus highlights a pivotal moment in the evolving dynamics between European and Chinese automotive industries.
Source: 20 Minuten, Reuters, Hiru News, RaillyNews (September 7, 2025)
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